DEWITT, N.Y. (NCC News) – The scene at Dewitt Town Hall was quieter than expected this Election Day evening, with only a small number of voters arriving to cast their ballots. While the presidential election has garnered widespread national attention, the turnout at this polling location suggested that many residents may have opted to stay home.
Among those who did come out was Stephanie, a 35-year-old stay-at-home mother who has been voting consistently for over a decade. For her, participating in the democratic process is essential, regardless of the stakes.
“I feel like as citizens, we should express how we feel during these difficult times,” she said. “It’s our freedom to vote, so why not use that ability?”
Though she didn’t feel strongly drawn to any particular candidate or issue, Stephanie believes in the importance of taking part.
“I just wanted to say I had a chance to put my opinion in, even if it’s just a small piece of the pie,” she said.
Gibson, a 25-year-old hairstylist voting in her first general election, shared a similar sense of responsibility, but admitted she felt unprepared.
“I was very up in the air for a long time,” she said. After talking to friends and family to gather perspectives, she ultimately felt more confident in her choices.
“I was more stressed this time and that’s what motivated me. I don’t know, I think it’s because I’m an adult now and want to see things change,” she said.
Though turnout was sparse, those who came expressed a quiet determination to make their voices heard. For Dewitt’s residents, this Election Day represented an opportunity to contribute to both the national outcome and the broader future, even if their numbers were fewer than expected.